Why You Should Think Twice About Visiting This Illinois City

When planning a first-time trip to Illinois, you'll probably include one major city on your itinerary. However, I’d suggest you think twice before heading to Chicago.

It’s easy to get caught up in the excitement of popular tourist cities, but there are a few reasons to reconsider your road trip.

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I've lived in Illinois my entire life and have been to Chicago a thousand times.  I've never understood the appeal of the Bean, Magnificent Mile, or spending money at major retail stores you can find elsewhere.  That's just me, though!

The size of Chicago can be overwhelming

There's lots of walking... I mean, miles of walking.  When you get to one attraction, you don't spend much time there because there's not really that much to do.

Iconic sights often come with massive crowds

This can turn a simple visit into a stressful experience, trust me.  Don't even think about going to Chicago for St. Patrick's Day weekend because the crowds are insane.

Read More: One Of America’s Worst Tourist Traps Is This Illinois Attraction

The Windy City is actually windy

It can be very unpredictable and cold, especially near Lake Michigan and Navy Pier.  Every time I've gone to Navy Pier, half the attractions are closed.  It's always a bummer.

Read More: Illinois Cities Dubbed ‘Most Dangerous’ in America, 2 in Top 25

If you're visiting Chicago for its famous deep-dish pizza and Chicago-style hot dogs, then maybe it is worth paying a visit.  We do have some amazing food that everyone needs to try at least once!

Other than the food, there are plenty of other vacation destinations to see beyond Chicago.  Warmer places, too...

So, while it’s a city with a lot to offer, I’d recommend steering clear of Chicago for your next trip. There are plenty of other charming spots in Illinois that can give you a more relaxed and enjoyable experience!